Nivelo
Blog
TOEFL iBT Score to CEFR Level

Nivelo

TOEFL iBT Score to CEFR Level

A TOEFL iBT total of 72–94 maps to about CEFR B2, and 95–120 to C1. ETS publishes the alignment as approximate — here's the table, plus a free 5-minute test to see your CEFR level.

Free · No signup required · 5 minutes

TOEFL iBT total score to CEFR level

TOEFL iBT reports a total score from 0 to 120 (four sections, 0–30 each). ETS maps score ranges to CEFR levels; the commonly cited alignment for the total score is:

CEFR levelTOEFL iBT (total)
B142–71
B272–94
C195–120
Approximate TOEFL iBT ↔ CEFR alignment (per ETS). Indicative, not exact — confirm the requirement with your institution.

Reading the TOEFL–CEFR mapping

ETS sets a minimum score per section for each CEFR level, so your section profile — not just the total — determines your level. A total in the B2 range with a weak section can still leave one skill at B1.

Most universities that accept TOEFL ask for 72–100 depending on the program; graduate and competitive programs skew higher. As always, the official requirement is what counts — check it at the source.

Ready to find out?

Take the free 5-minute test

Frequently asked questions

What TOEFL score is B2?▾

Approximately a total of 72 to 94 on the TOEFL iBT. B2 is the level most undergraduate programs require, so scores in this range clear many admissions bars — but check the per-section minimums too.

What TOEFL score is C1?▾

Roughly 95 to 120. C1 is common for postgraduate and competitive programs. A very high total near 118–120 approaches C2.

Does TOEFL report a CEFR level?▾

Your TOEFL score report shows a CEFR level per section based on ETS's mapping, alongside the numeric scores. To see your overall CEFR level before test day, take a CEFR-aligned test — Nivelo's free 5-minute test gives you a range graded against the CEFR descriptors.

CEFR-based proficiency assessment. Not an official certification from Cambridge, Cervantes, or the Council of Europe.